According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, nearly 600,000 people were homeless in January of 2014. This number included those in emergency shelters as well as those out on the street. Some states experience a higher rate of homeless people than others, but it’s a prevalent problem everywhere. Over three million Americans will be homeless at some point during the year with over 1 million of those being children.
Many people think of alcoholics and drug addicts when they consider who might be homeless. However, statistics show that many of those with no place to call home are veterans, children and even families. One of the primary causes of homelessness is lack of affordable housing, while unemployment prevents people from being able to pay for a place to live.
How to Minister Effectively to the Homeless
You see people volunteering in homeless shelters and soup kitchens, especially around the holidays. The number of volunteers drops off after the holidays are over. What about the rest of the year? And how can we minister more effectively to people in homeless situations?
First, commit to volunteering year-round. Instead of helping out on Thanksgiving or providing assistance around Christmas, make a commitment to an organization for the entire year. Devote one week each month or one day each week to assisting at homeless shelters or food pantries.
Even better, get your family to help you or organize an entire group at your local church. Have specific people sign up for certain weeks so there is a steady stream of volunteers.
Show respect to the homeless. Get rid of whatever preconceived ideas you have about homeless people when you volunteer to help them. Treat them with dignity and remember that their circumstances do not define their worth. Everyone was created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. In fact, Jesus said that when you feed those who are hungry and clothe those with no clothing, you are doing it unto Him.
Find Ways to Make a Difference
While food and temporary lodging are the most important and immediate concerns for the homeless, you can help in other ways to provide long-term results. For instance, you can volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and other organizations to provide permanent, low-cost housing for people who need a roof over their heads.
You can also volunteer at local community centers and career centers to teach people new skills so they can find jobs. Many stores exist where you can donate suits for job interviews to those who cannot afford to buy brand new clothing.
If you don’t have resources in your community for the homeless, find out how to start an organization. You can donate blankets and clothing and even toys or other items for children who are homeless.
As you tuck your children into bed tonight and prepare for a cozy night of sleep in a warm bed, think about those who can’t afford this luxury. You can make a difference by getting involved in ministry efforts for the homeless. Though they are often forgotten by the world, God sees every homeless person. He may want you to be His hands and feet to help them experience His love as you provide for their needs.
